So... I was happy with my Shure SCL4s for traveling. But then I got my full-sized cans and now I feel like the SCL4s are disappointing when I listen to them. I am looking for something that is ideal for air travel with excellent isolation and comfort. But at the same time I'd like something that has better sound. I took my AKG K271s on the train with me last week because I couldn't face 9 hours with my SCL4s. But their isolation, while OK for the Amtrak "quiet car," is nowhere near what I'd need on a plane. I really want something that will sound fantastic and not just "fine." I used to look forward to travel because it gave me a chance to have hours and hours of uninterrupted listening time - I want IEMs that I can look forward to again!

Price range: hopefully under $150 or maybe $200 (used is OK if it would make a big difference, but I'm not so broke that I need to save $20 on used vs. new)

Music: I listen to a lot of types of music but on planes I tend to go more for something relaxing, which for me tends towards strings, guitars, pianos, chamber music, that sort of thing.

I was looking at things like ER4P, PFE and SA6... but how much of an upgrade would those be? Is there really a big upgrade to be had in my price range, or should I not bother? Are the differences going to be very noticeable with the airplane engine as background noise?

I think Klipsch Custom3 willbe better upgrade over SCL4s and it has rich detaild midrange with great bass extention and good highs.

If you are looking the the IEM to live up to a full size can experience you can't do it for $150-$200. You must go upwards to a triple driver. SE530 is a logical choice.

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If the SCL4 is a sound you like, then the SE530 will give you that, better.

The Klipsch Custom 3 and the SE530 are both ~$300, right?

I've heard the SE530 is great for isolation and they have some synergy with the Cowon S9 which is what I'd use them with... I'm not 100% sure I want to spend that much on something I'd be stuffing into a carry-on bag, though. Hmm.

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both are nice but the custom 3 should be far cheaper, have a look around

oh and the 530 is clearly a step up from the custom 3

Had the custom 3 and wasn't very impressed, particularly for the price. They didn't sound bad, just not good enough. I've never heard the se530, but if price wasn't a consideration I would go for them as I wasn't fond of the custom 3's.

The SE530 is my go-to IEM for air travel; providing excellent isolation and snoozability. Plus, they have sweet mids for jazz and great synergy with the S9. Apparently, eCost is selling the SE530 with PTH for $269.

The ER4's with triple flanges offer terriffic isolation and good sound. You do not have to crank them up to overcome ambient noise. Upon removal in flight, my first thought is not where did the music go, rather, where did all this noise come from.

If I were able to get some inexpensive (used) TF10s, do you think that would suit my needs?

Yes TF10Pro are very high end triple drivers IEMs and they are steal if the price is low.

I've heard the SCL4 and have the Klipsch Image X5. The X5 have a similar sound signature but a little bit better, I'd call them smoother. And they are also more comfortable. Just my humble opinion.

Well, I was able to pick up a pair of barely-used (so they say) TF10s for $200 shipped, which is in my price range and everything... I figure at that price if I don't like them I probably can resell them without a loss.

If you sell the TF10 and are reconsidering the SE530, I would note that they indeed isolate better than the SCL4. And they come with a nice, sturdy clamshell case, so you don't have to worry about stuffing them in your bag.

Giving the TF10s a good listen now... they remind me of my AKGs on first listen, definitely a lot better than the SCL4s. This sound signature is perfect for me.

I did the flip mod right off the bat because I read that it was so much better, but it absolutely killed my ears... go figure. Much more comfy for me with the 'phones the right way around. I'm using the orange foams from my E2Cs until my Complys get here...